The exhibition of the spotted seal "Hikari" (female, 2 years old) at the Asamushi Aquarium (Asamushi Babayama, Aomori City, TEL 017-752-3377 ) will end on October 31st.

The museum exhibits sea mammals such as penguins, seals, fur seals, etc. The main exhibits are the "Dolphin Performance" where dolphins show off their actions, and the 15-meter-long tunnel aquarium "Mutsu Bay Sea".

"Hikari" was born in April 2020 between father "Kibo" and mother "Mei", and is familiar with the catchphrase "Light of Hope". Earlier this month, it was announced on the museum's website that "Hikari" will be moving to "Izu Mitsu Sea Paradise" (Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture). It is said that it is a "breeding loan" in which aquariums lend and borrow animals in order to increase the number of animals without stopping.

Tatsuma Miura, who is in charge of breeding, recalls, "He has a curious personality and is a popular seal who likes to play with visitors through the glass. Hikari was born soon after I joined the company in March 2020, so I have a lot of memories."

Since October 24 was a substitute holiday for school events, many elementary school students from the city visited the museum. 6-year-old Tsumugi Nakayama, who came with her mother when she learned about Hikari's move, said, "Last month, I came and played with Hikari. If you wave your towel while you run, she will chase after you, so it's cute." Rin Kudo (3 years old), who came with her father, said, "Bye-bye, Hikari-chan. Keep up the good work."

Mr. Miura said, "I thought I was going to watch over the seals all the time, so it's sad to see them go far away. I have a strong temper, but I hope they spend time well with the seals in Izu. I don't get to see them very often, so they look lovely. I would like you to come and see the."

The opening hours are from 9:00 to 17:00 (admission until 16:30). The admission fee is 1,030 yen for adults and high school students, 510 yen for elementary and junior high school students, and free for infants.